Project Profile: Harris B. McDowell, III Transportation Center

The Harris B. McDowell, III Transportation Center project represents a comprehensive overhaul of the legacy Claymont Rail Station into a fully integrated, ADA-compliant multimodal hub. This $90 million initiative addresses critical infrastructure deficits on the Northeast Corridor, enhancing passenger capacity, regional connectivity, and establishing a foundation for transit-oriented development.

Technical Specifications

The core of the facility features two 630-foot high-level platforms, constructed to meet full Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance for level boarding on the SEPTA Wilmington/Newark Line. An enclosed pedestrian bridge, equipped with redundant elevators and stairs, provides weather-protected, accessible passage for all users across the active Northeast Corridor tracks. The center’s design prioritizes seamless modal interchange.

Integrated transit infrastructure includes a dedicated bus loop with covered shelters, layover areas, and electric bus charging stations for DART and SEPTA services. Vehicular access is supported by a new three-tier parking garage and adjacent surface lots, providing a combined capacity of approximately 870 spaces. This includes 13 dedicated Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations to support sustainable transport. The facility also incorporates modern passenger amenities such as bicycle repair stations, USB charging ports, and real-time transit information displays.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Multimodal Integration: The project successfully merges commuter rail (SEPTA), inter-agency bus services (DART), pedestrian access via an I-495 bridge connection, and private vehicle infrastructure (parking, EV charging) into a single, efficient transportation node.
• Catalyst for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): By redeveloping a former industrial site into a modern, high-capacity transit center, the project establishes a critical anchor for future economic growth and smart development in the Claymont area.
• Modernization of Legacy Infrastructure: The center rectifies long-standing deficiencies of the previous station, including ADA non-compliance, inadequate capacity, and safety concerns, setting a new standard for passenger facilities on the Northeast Corridor.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the new Claymont train station open?

The new Harris B. McDowell, III Transportation Center in Claymont, Delaware, officially opened to the public in November 2023.

Who built the new Claymont transportation center?

The design and construction of the Claymont transportation center were handled by Wagman Heavy Civil, with engineering support from Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT) and architectural planning by LS3P.